Real Estate Blog - Groups On ActiveRain

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Groups On ActiveRain

Why did ActiveRain create the opportunity to allow members to start and join groups? I've heard many say "they're out of control." Does anyone really spend much time searching groups and joining them? If not, it's something everyone should consider or at least re-visit. When did you join a group last? Did you know consumers and visitors can't see your groups? Only other members can. So network, that's why they're there.

I haven't searched or even looked at any new groups for the past 5-6 months. Why? I had joined so many, I felt I didn't have the time to check in with ALL the ones I'm already subscribing too. But then today, it dawned on me that there are so many more new groups available now.

If you join groups just to place your posts in the TOP 5, then you're missing the point and value of these groups. They are like mini communities all through the rain that offer some great resources and information. In the last six months, there have been over 1500 new groups added. That's 4057 total. So where do you start? Why are some more successful than others, and what makes them successful?

It's Content! Now, just find the ones that interest you most!

You can search for posts on just about anything here on ActiveRain, but if you search groups instead, you'll find little pockets of rain puddles everywhere. You name it, now there's a group. These are some of the groups I have joined (on the left) that have been a great resource, and have also been fun to be a part of. Get connected by joining groups.

How do you search groups?

How Can you Sort and Sift?

These tools will help you to locate and join some of the best mini communities created on ActiveRain. Another way to search groups is by using the search tool. Click on "Groups" at the top of the page, then on the right side of your screen, type in any topic and click "Search", you will find pages of groups that meet your search criteria. Many answers to questions you have right now are in these groups!

To join a group: Go to any group, and click the "JOIN" button on the side bar above the groups' guidelines. To leave the group, just click the button again which now reads "LEAVE" Don't forget to read the guidelines before joining. Be sure to only post information relative to that group.

Here's a couple searches I did on some topics I was interested in, and look what came up. ActiveRain Help, Real Estate Technology, ActiveRain Listings, All About SEO, Marketing Ideas and Support, Real Estate Photography, Contests, and of course Blogging. The posts and resources in some of these groups are incredible. If you get a minute, do a search, and do yourself a favor. If you want to know about anything in our industry, or on ActiveRain, don't just search Blogs, search and join groups too.

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Posted by Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager on 07/08/2008 03:50 AM

Comments (179)

groups

Originally posted at: The Official ActiveRain Guide: Groups On ActiveRain

Post is included in group: Services for Real Estate Professionals
Post is included in group: Out Of The Box!
Post is included in group: Online Marketing Help Center
Post is included in group: HELP/FAQ (Read 'Purpose Statement' Carefully!)
Post is included in group: Active Rain Newbies

179 Comments on Groups On ActiveRain

JUL

2008

Well, I just joined 3 more...Posts To Localism, The ActiveRain Lounge, and Internet Lead Generation.

So, I have been on this site for a while now and did not know that groups are not seen by the public and your overview helps me understand groups and perhaps later today I will check it out again. I really like when you guys post I always find out something new. Thanks.

I largely eschew Groups because there are only so many hours in the day. Also, when I post an article and look at my small list of Groups, I need to remember what the individual Groups are about. Sometimes, from the title, it's hard to tell or recall. So, I only belong to a very few. But, they do get some traction and I do love traction.

So many groups, so little time. The hardest part for me is remembering, in some instances, just what is wanted, and not wanted, in the different groups. The names can be confusing. Thank you for reminding me to look for more opportunities to 'network.'

Yea, I belong to too many. I forget some of the descriptions, I know I need to quit some of them but I do occassionally visit them all. I tend to use Outlook Users Group the most to check in on. But, I do like getting emails from Jason and Adam to remind me they posted. Some don't use the notice factor as moderators, some moderators aren't even around anymore, so they need to be cleaned up.

I love groups and I belong to a bunch of different ones that I send posts to. I make sure my content is appropriate but like Susie I sometimes forget guidelines of some of the groups and the group names can be confusing in that regard. We are writing to be read. I can't read every post every day and don't visit every group every day but I do check in when I have time and visit my favorites more often. I agree with Brad go join a few new groups today. Have a good one.

I liken groups to neighborhoods, and reading through the posts to a group like walking through a neighborhood. The best aspect to me is once you get to know your neighbors, you can find a real support network. I admit that there are some parts of this "city" that I do not travel to often, but then again how many parts of your own city do you hang out in often? I concentrate on the neighborhoods where I feel comfortaqble, and visit the others on ocassion.

Brad - it is scary how closely my groups mirror many of yours...

There are a number of ways to navigate in AR. But I believe the group system may be the real genius of Active Rain and I thank Matt and his technical team for taking this approach. I do not know how anybody could assimilate content from 96,000 + members without creating a topic index that would look like the group system. (but with groups you allow us to generate the index to suit our own needs) It allows me to focus on new content which is in my areas of expertise or interest without having to scan the messages that are clearly on topics that may interest others more than me.

Groups truly permits AR to be all things to all people with the ability to customize your AR experience to your personal or professional tastes.

But groups also give me ammunition to argue that any limitation on content is unnecessary. There are those who feel that some groups which stimulate strong opinions such as politics, religion or lifestyle may not be appropriate for AR. I believe that with more than 4,000 groups and 96,000+ members, we are a pretty big tent and should have room for all interests and opinions. I don't have to read all of them and I can select those that I am interested in - just like everybody else. Pretty good system, all things considered.

Great post, Brad. Keep the new ideas coming - and highlight the new technologies AR has on offer for us all.

Thanks for all you do.

Hi Brad - Your post is very helpful to us newbies, as well as a good reminder to the experienced AR folks. I was wondering about those groups.... And now I will go exploring. Thanks!

Way too many on my end...I had leave a few because I never post there. I can't keep up with all the invites so I would rather keep it to a minimum. I still have too many just floundering around.

Thanks Brad...I make myself od comments daily and look in different place to make them....different folks I have "met"....and now will add the search to different groups...oh duh...should have done that earlier...How is National Them Them DAY, WEEK coming ?

Groups make it so easy to find specific information in AR, like-minded folks, and to use the social aspects of the community. And it is still quite simple to just avoid stuff in which we have no interest, or find distasteful.

Brad, I think that the groups form a great way to divide things into smaller communities within the larger Active Rain environment. Some of the active, well-moderated groups really provide a home on Active Rain for many people. And just about everyone can find a niche that they enjoy.

It took a while for me to discover groups, but I do find myself going back to certaAndin ones more often than others. Every once in a while, I'll pare down my groups and "unjoin" some that I no longer frequent. You're right, it seems like there is already a group for everything, and yet new ones start every week - some of them are the best, and it's kinda fun to be with a group from day one and help it grow.

Personally, I feel the groups have gotten out of control. I think too many of them are repetitive, and i don't have time to sift through all of them to see which ones are actually important. I feel many need to be combined. Take the Texas groups, for example. There are three that basically have the exact same content. When asked to merge them, they all refused saying they wanted to have separate identities... but they're still the same... no one differentiates them.

Brad,

Yes, I need to join a few more groups--thanks for listing them.

I've started searching through the groups several times but never have time or patience to get more than about a dozen pages in. There ARE too many. But I still try. You've listed a few here that I will be checking out for sure. Thank you!

Brad: I am a groups "junkie" and use them extensively. Thanks for this clarification post though. I learned some things that I did not know!

Brad, This is a great idea when looking for a special group. I used to try to scroll through all the groups but there are so many now it has become impossible. Thanks for the tips.

I feel that the groups I join are extended family. Where you are comfortable with those around you and can discuss things you think they would enjoy hearing.

Thanks for yet more tips for the newbies. It really helps us out.

Brad, My list of groups is pretty long but I must admit I usually go from the home page to my subscribe to list. Between following them and reciprocating I am on overload. I must admit my own group, Newbies Again has been dormant...but I've been thinking about a series of posts for it so will try to revive it as I know there are many here on AR the have started over. Can you please add two hours to every day...say 26 hours or even 28?

I read a post by Paddy on this very topic earlier today; and went through the groups and picked a few that seem to fit me. There are SO many groups! I did a post on two of the groups and will be anxious to see if I'm "accepted"! :-)

I agree with Diane's post...I think I'll need another few hours in the day to read groups, subscribers and do my own postings.

Brad, since one of my goals at Active Rain is to connect to others with similar interests, this refresher on Groups allows me to search out others in the Groups I have interest in. Thanks for the tutorial, which you always do well at putting together.

Here's something for the "wish list"

That Group List you illustrated in your post ... in the left panel of everyone's AR My Home page ... I'd sure like a way to organize that list.... maybe group the Groups into different categories..... Maybe just be able to change the order in which they appear on the list.

I belong to so many, that sometimes finding the particular one I want to read in my mess of a list is exhausting..... Thanks.

Brad, how come with every posy you write you convince me to stay on the computer (AR) a littl longer?

Thanks for all the info

Anne

Brad,

Groups are a good way to sort your posts...and also provide a kind of balance...I try to contribute to as many as I can, showing solidarity for the group and its members!!! Thanks, Fran

Brad - groups are great because they do help you focus on what you are interested in.

Brad:

Like others. I find I have joined too many (broad interests, I suppose) and it's difficult to find time to keep up with them and the beneftis of belonging. I have learned lots by beng parts of some groups, while others are just fun. Your explanation and clarification was a big help - haev to say I have not useed the search function by topic.

Jeff

Groups are a great way to focus on the content you enjoy reading. It is also important to post to the right group to connect with the right audience. Thanks Brad!

I'm with Lenn. I only belong to a few groups. There is a lot of interesting stuff out there, but I would never work with real people if I spent time reading all these blogs.

Morning Brad, not only are there a ton of interesting groups out there in the Rain (I know because I'm a subscriber to many of them) but by posting in the appropriate group we have a better chance of getting a reaction to them.

Brad: Good Post. Good Topic! I actually cleaned house (blog) several weeks ago and deleted groups that I do not "use" or "contribute too." Like Lenn said, there are just so many hours in a day.

I like groups and it would be very difficult to maintain without them. However, your post has prompted me to do some housekeeping and additional research. Thanks.

I have joined a lot of groups and have gotten to know members that way and I totally enjoy that part of being a part of a group. But, it is definitely hard to remember what is allowed to be posted where. And of course, it is time consuming trying to remember why you joined and what content belongs where.

But....after reading this post Brad, it is a great reminder why AR has groups and why it is useful for members to be a part of them.

Thanks Brad - great tutorial. I am going to sort and sift for some new groups that interest me.

What's this? There's not a single two-word "Great Post" comment yet!! LOL!~ Looks like this one may have actually inspired some great conversation threads! Now I'm going to have to read, and think, so let me get some coffee, and I'll be right back.... :-)))))

Brad

Good post, but not great!!! LOL, Thanks, Fran

OOPS...I meant GREAT POST!

I guess you could call me a groupie...I am forever joining groups. I think the thing is, we need to be finding groups that fit what we are posting about...Not just get comfortable with a few and put everything in that group.

Brad, the AR search feature in general is very bad. as a result, the group search feature is bad. even the sort and sift does not really help much. I don't know what would make it better, but you could spend a long time just looking for different groups.

someone had asked if there was a way to invite large groups at the same time to join a group. is there? I didn't see that there was.

I do agree about the fact that people should join groups, they are like little communities. I've urged many people to join certain groups that I thought would be good for them.

Miriam - unless you are logged out when you view your profile, you'd never know what's visible to visitors. When I noticed this, I couldn't resist a post! :-) Plus I needed to get something in the "Out Of The Box" group where I have been inactive for a bit! lol~

Lenn - I have experienced the same dilemna, sometimes the group names don't match the requirements the founder has placed on that group. It's unfortunate that those groups might not be getting as many posts and subscribers as they could or should. It might be a good time for ALL GROUP Founders to review their guidelines and make some updates or modifications to their Group Title or requirements.

Brad, I belong to way to many groups that I never even look at. Lately though, what I have found very helpful is to go to :"Week in Review" . If someone has ownership for the group and can filter out the good posts for that group (if active), post a review post there, this group can be a great place to find new and talented AR members. AJ

Susie - I think we need to evaluate the groups we're in from time to time and do as others have mentioned here. Get in or Get out. It's easy to be a member of 100 groups and a participant of none. lol~ I still like and stay connected to some of the groups that I never post to. I get valuable information and ideas from other members there. I haven't seen a group yet that says "YOU MUST POST HERE" to join the group. :-)

Thanks much. I too forget to see what new groups have been added. From time to time I drop a group that has moved into a direction I don't enjoy - guess I need to look for new ones too.

Missy - see, there's a perfect example, I didn't know there was an Outlook User Group here. There are many groups that do need a spring/summer cleaning as the founders and moderators are either gone or have abandoned their "post" pun intended. I need to do like you, clean up my act with groups and maybe even check in on the few I have created myself. haha

Paddy - I think when you write to be read, you have a good chance of getting more exposure when your authored posts are placed in the proper groups. When content is good, comments are good. Moderator and founders feature posts within groups and that gets you great exposure from members of that group. Even if your post is not featured in a group, everytime someone reads and leaves you a comment, your post rises back to the top of the group which gets more eyes on what you've contributed.

Frank - the really nice thing about these mini-communities all over AR is that you do get to pick and choose which neighborhoods you get to walk through and become acclimated. There are many that I don't have an interest in, but as I view them, I see hundreds of other members that do take an interest and part in. You've got to love that there are so many options available under the umbrella of the overall AR community.

Brad - The groups are out of control. With 4,000+ groups, there is a lot of irrelevance, abandonment and redundancy. Add to that the fact that over 1,500 are uncategorized as shown in your graphic, and it becomes a lot bigger issue than just sorting and sifting. Groups should make it easier for us to find relevant, focused content but the way they're set up now there just aren't enough hours in the day.

Ted - that is kinda scary! haha I have actually joined some groups because I saw other members that I respect and appreciate had joined them. You can tell a lot about a person by the groups they associate themselves with. Want to see what members really like? Just look at the groups they're in.

"we are a pretty big tent and should have room for all interests and opinions" and I think we do. I see how some members "play ball" in some of these groups you've mentioned, and the nice thing is, we have a choice if we want to play or not. I like that it's all right here, I hardly have to leave the community to find anything I need. Sometimes I am surprised at some of the stuff I find and see here too. lol~

Margaret - Have fun on your exploration, the only heads up I would give is to really pay close attention to the group guidelines posted by the founders before you join. If you're going to include posts to that group, you want to be sure and post only relative content, otherwise you could be wasting a lot of time and frustrating other members of the group. Then you'll start getting emails that tell you "You Post Was Deleted From The ??????? Group" and those are no fun. Enjoy! :-)

Neal - you don't have to leave a group just because you don't post there. I have joined many groups I don't post in, I just like to read the other members posts. I joined so I don't have to go try and find that group later if I need information or ideas. I think it becomes more a time management or a clutter on your homepage issue. We have subscribers in the ActiveRain MLS Online group that have never posted a listing yet, but I know they are in there learning and seeing what other members are doing so that if and when the time comes, they feel like they belong and are part of the mini community there.

I find these discussions interesting, the groups that are successful are the ones that promote and invite, not every post needs to be in each group. there are a couple of groups that I enjoy reading that don't have a lot of members yet but the content is just what I am interested in so it is a front seat to the show.

I would suggest if one thinks a group is dormant (and that bothers you) send an e-mail to the creator to see if there is something you can do to encourage a regeneration of interest in the subject matter. If it is not a subject you interact with don't worry about it. We don't all need to be exactly the same to enjoy our experience in the RAIN. be good cheryl

Sally and David - there are so many groups you can go to and find great content for your comments while learning so much at the same time. Finding a way to balance writing, reading, commenting, and learning is unique to each individual. The groups really do allow you to hone in on the topics that are of the greatest interest to YOU. The THEM THEM group is a great mini community for members to recognize others for their accomplishments and attaboys! I read there often though I don't post as much as I should.

I also like the MeMe group and the Week In Review. So much you can learn about those individuals you are interested in working with or having as an associate for your referrals.

A National THEM THEM day/week? I like the idea, yet we have 4056 other groups. They deserve a NATIONAL day too right? (Big Smile) The #1 Group on AR based on subscribers is REALTORS®, followed by "The Art of Marketing You" and then the "Newbies" group. Maybe we need a NEW GROUP called National Group Recognition Day. :-)

Mike - I don't think I could have said it any better. You have summed up this post in a single comment. The other thing I would suggest to members is that before you go creating a NEW GROUP, you might want to see if one similar to your idea already exists. Chances are, it does. :-)

Someone give Mike a gold Star! Well said!

Brian - (Video Man) lol~ I have to agree with you there. Just as our Counties are broken down into cities and towns, then communities and neighborhoods, and even down to subdivisions, groups are a very similar concept here. People get to choose the places and neighborhoods they like and want to live, without the hassle of packing and moving to each community. Best part is, there's no prequal process!! lol~

Hi Brad...Yesterday!

I joined a new group created by the wonderful Melissa Grant and Deb Brooks, "Branding" in the Rain. I believe they learned much from the makeover2takeover contest and they have offered to share with the rest of us. Others will be able to contribute tips also.

It is perfect for folks like me. How could I refuse?

Kate

Margaret - You contribute so much to so many of these groups, we are in many of the same ones. I just checked to confirm that, and picked up two more interesting groups by just looking at your profile page. My Other Blog is, and Share Your FREEBIES, two topics I have an interest in, and I have just discovered another way to search for groups. Go to those members you read and subscribe to, and see the groups they are part of. Thanks for the idea and unintended invitation to a couple new groups. :-))

Donna - and I quoted you in this post before you even had the chance to comment! haha I knew this post would draw you out! lol~ I agree that before anyone creates a new group, they should see if one exists already. That was the idea behind this post. I was asked if a specific group should be created by a member and there are already TWO groups that exists with the exact same concept. (I also did it so I could email to members who ask about or need help with groups) :-)

It's too bad some of these groups can't consolidate and join together. Technically, I don't think it's possible. How would/could we join 2 or 3 groups together without it being a technical nightmare? I think that would be the bigger issue. I would happily Join our ActiveRain MLS Online with Gena's Listings By Address, but how? Since it is each individual members choice to select that little "JOIN GROUP" button, I don't see how we could consolidate them. It might be something the AR tech crew can review and see if it's possible. hmmm...I love a good idea that comes from us brainstorming on a post.

In the meantime, I think the message should be clear: DO NOT create new groups until you are positive they don't already exist.

Diane - there are plenty to choose from, you'll find groups on AR to be like little mini cities and neighborhoods all scattered through out the rain. Pick those that really get you fired up and inspire you to grow, learn and contribute. That's why they are there and why they were created. I get some really great post ideas to write about on many of my Blogs thanks to the wonderful folks in some of these groups. I'll never be short of content as long as I check in once in a while. :-)

I rarely go to groups for any info. A couple of good ones I like. Maybe we should have a system that eliminates you from a group you do not use for a period of time.

Kathy - there are many groups here, that's why I used the term sorting and sifting. There's no other way than to search through them and decide which ones are most interesting and useful to you.

Brad, I was searching thru the groups, and I found an active rain suggestion group. there was a post from Cheryl Johnson: http://activerain.com/blogsview/153126/Active-Rain-Group-Structure asking a good question and there were no responses for a year.

I don't think it's because no one likes her :-) I think it's because the groups are difficult to find.

Steve - I guess that makes you an Official "Groupie" lol~ Glad you are getting good use out of the many AR groups. I'll have to check out your profile now to see what ones you might save me some time looking for. Thanks. :-)

Carole - I used to do the same thing many months ago, it would take forever to do it that way now. :-)

Nancy - ActiveRain is like the BIG family where Massive Reunions take place and information gets shared. The groups are more like living room friends over discussing more focused and specific topics. Great analogy, thanks for sharing it that way. :-)

Diane - LOL!~ I know what you mean. Even as I typed up this post, I realized that as I was joining more groups, there were those I hadn't been in or even seen for months now. I figured I'd join some more, then sift through and leave those that I no longer have an interest in. As far as the clock and time goes, I'll be happy to add 4 more hours to your day, just not mine! haha. :-))

Cindy - just remember that if you only post to the group, it will not show up on your Blog and you don't get points for those. If you still want the points and have them show up on your Blog, create a new post, then add it to the (up to 5) groups that it can be posted in. I know one person who had put 18 posts into a group, and didn't get any points for doing it that way. Just FYI... :-)

Gary - that is really the definition of groups: A place to network and connect with others who have similar interests. Thanks for putting it so eloquently. It's kinda funny, I wish I could reformat this post using many of the comments here like yours to re create it. Some of you have such a great way with words, the comments are way better and say it better than the post does. I guess that's how we continue to grow and learn. Comments on ActiveRain are part of what makes us all better at writing and understanding each other. Thanks my friend, I always appreciate your comments and responses. :-)

Cheryl - that is an awesome idea, I have found this to be true in my case as well. Not sure the future plans for enhancements with groups right now, but that's a great one to add to the "Wish List". I'd also like to see our email interface on AR a bit more enhanced. You just gave me a great idea, I'll do a wish list post...nope...maybe not, I think one has already been done, but maybe I will anyway. Thanks. :-)

Anne - I'll have to work on that a bit. I'm glad that the posts I write don't have the opposite affect, driving you away from the computer and AR!! lol~ Thanks for the comment and making me smile and laugh out loud. :-)

Fran - I want to be just like you when I grow up someday, problem is, I don't want to grow up! lol~ I know you're going to comment here later with those infamous two words "Good Post" or "Great Post" so I'm just letting you know now up front that I'll be NOT responding to that comment! lol~ Thanks my friend, hope you're having a group great week. :-))

Bill - and I need all the help I can get! lol~ You sure got that right. :-)

Jeff - as busy as you are with business and all your successes here on AR, I'm not sure how it is you find the time to accomplish half the things you do. You are always at the top of my screen for California. As busy as you are and as involved as you are, I still am in awe how you can find the time to read and comment on my posts. I can't tell you how much I appreciate that and at the same time, want to know your secrets how you do it all?!?! Oh do tell... I'll be watching for that post! :-))

Howard - you nailed it. Making sure your posts end up in the right groups and not the wrong ones is partially the key to exposure and interaction with others that have the same interests. Glad you are part of the same groups I am in. The sharing of information and resources in these groups is phenomenal. :-)

Melina - I saw your groups and see that you enjoy some very key areas and aspects of AR, thanks for making it easy on me to see your primary interests. By having fewer groups, it not only saves you time reading, it saved me time figuring out what you like when you are networking here on AR. There's always a benefit and two sides to every coin. :-) Maybe being part of 1000 groups is not the best thing for some of us, great point. Thanks. :-)

Marti - coming from the guy who has the #2 most subscribed group on ActiveRain, I hope others will read and heed your comment. You obviously know how to create an effective group and understand the value of the content and members who contribute. Congrats my friend, you are a major contributor to the success of our community and we all appreciate you very much. I am certainly one of your biggest GROUPees!! :-)

Kat - time to get out the brrom and dust pan for me too, but I guess I am just a compulsive, gotta have more kinda guy! lol~ I do plan on going through mine as well, but only when more hours are added to the day. It's easier to join than decide which to leave! Guess I better go join the addicts group eh?? :-)

Debbie - then the post worked perfectly. I guess it was meant just for you.. haha :-)

Brad,

Thanks for the reminders about the different groups and thanks for reminding us that the general public has no access to the groups.

Terrie - I think it's clear that we all suffer from the same issues with groups and even blogging. What goes where? Why did I join? No time in the day etc. I think we just have to come to terms with what works for each of us individually. Before I was with AR, I wouldn't have even had the time to write a post like this. It really comes down to what works for you. It may not be the same that works for someone else. Blogging has to be one of the most unique and individual things we do in this industry. It's mind boggling to think of all the different ways members are successful here. To each his/her own....literally. :-)

The number of groups on AR can be overwhelming- but it is fun to see what is out there. Sometimes it is good to venture outside of your comfort zone.

Sharon - don't you just love that term "Sort and Sift" ?? Sounds like a great title for a Blog! lol~ Enjoy. :-)

I didn't know all that about groups - thank you! You are bookmarked, as usual.

Fran - OK, I lied, I'm responding!! lol~ :-) Great Comment!

Kat - your little kitty is just purrrrrfect! I'm a LEO ya know, born year of the tiger...got a thing about kats cats. :-))

Brad - As you know, I love the groups and I am currently moderating about seven of them. Nice tutorial! I am also a Leo, for what it's worth (August 17th).

Jeremy - based on your comment, I feel like my timing was good on this post. We have seen a lot of that lately. Even the REALTOR® group. I bet 50% of the members in that group don't even know what the guidelines say, people just post there because it's the largest group. I feel sorry for those moderators and administrators. :-)

BTW - Thanks for helping me out by moderating the AR MLS Online Group, I think we caught is just before it may have gotten out of control. Thanks again, I appreciate your time and help there. :-)

Peter - while I agree that the search options may be a bit limited at this point, I think there are many other ways to sort and sift through the groups to find those that interest you most. Starting with other members you respect, appreciate, subscribe to, and add as associates. Take a look at their groups, you may find you have other common interests with them as well. The search groups feature actually works pretty good. Not sure if you are searching Blogs or groups, but that's why I dd a screen capture at the bottom of the post, some use the search feature and don't realize there are 4 options there to chose from. I circled groups because it defaults to Blogs. As far as inviting mass amounts of people or other large groups to yours, I'm not aware of any way to do that.

The groups that have been built up and are successful here are the ones that provide good content and then the viral word gets out to the community. It use to be easier to search through them when there were only a few hundred, but boy have times changed in the past year or so. One really awesome group for getting help is one that Rich Jacobson started called the HELP/FAQ group. The link is at the bottom of every AR page. Another is the Newbie group, even the Long Timers are getting value out of these groups still. Like I said, I think content and members are what make many of these groups very successful. Now that I am on board and starting to feel at home with the AR TEAM, I know my suggestions and yours do not fall on deaf ears. I We are always looking for ways to improve our your community, so never hesitate to contact me with ideas and suggestions. Thanks. :-)

AJ - the week in review group is great! I am always watching for that featured post, and in many cases, I never even make it over there to the group. Thanks for the reminder, I need to check in there. There may be a few I have missed. Neal has done a great job and I like that other members of the group step up and help out. So when are you doing the "Week In Review" post? You can't tell me Neal hasn't contacted you also... :-)

Greg - that's a great point. Sometimes the direction of the groups do change, and that can drive away subscribers as much as it can draw new ones. It's an on going area of AR that will continue to grow, change, and develop into "who knows what" in the future. It's all about preferences and the freedom to do as we choose.

Brad - The groups are out of control. With 4,000+ groups, there is a lot of irrelevance, abandonment and redundancy. Add to that the fact that over 1,500 are uncategorized as shown in your graphic, and it becomes a lot bigger issue than just sorting and sifting. Groups should make it easier for us to find relevant, focused content but the way they're set up now there just aren't enough hours in the day.

John - ya think?? lol~ Glad I could bring this to your attention so that you would pipe in here and help us get it fixed. This is your community too and I think your comment is legit. I think YOU should help get those groups categorized and running exactly the way they should be! (however that may be) You are the man I am voting for who will get the job done! We need a few good men!! The ARme needs YOU!! All those in favor???

Seriously though, Thanks John, the program isn't perfect I do understand that, it's the solutions and ideas that I hope to obtain and introduce through comments and suggestions like yours. :-))

Ya know I love ya man!!

Cheryl - your comment was great! Can I repeat it?

"I find these discussions interesting, the groups that are successful are the ones that promote and invite, not every post needs to be in each group. there are a couple of groups that I enjoy reading that don't have a lot of members yet but the content is just what I am interested in so it is a front seat to the show.

I would suggest if one thinks a group is dormant (and that bothers you) send an e-mail to the creator to see if there is something you can do to encourage a regeneration of interest in the subject matter. If it is not a subject you interact with don't worry about it.

We don't all need to be exactly the same to enjoy our experience in the RAIN. be good cheryl"

In the time it takes to make a comment on a post, you're right, a group founder could have been contacted and a discussion made about groups that are dead or dormant. If each member took the time to contact just one founder, it would be all done in 2 days. Right now there are 2964 members online in the community.

Now that's what I would call a real community cleanup day if we could really make it happen.
I think most go with your other comment though, if it's not a subject you're into, don't worry about it. :-)

Allison - this is for Mike from you!! :-))

Kathleen - How did you hear about the group? It must be new right? How did you find it or were you invited? Just curious for those who may be interested in how to promote their groups as well. I'm sure with Deb and Melissa at the helm, there will be some powerful stuff there.

That Makeover2Takeover Contest is tough, and those two are always going to be considered winners no matter what in my eyes. I'll have to check out the new group. Thanks for sharing that.

Please come back and tell us how you heard about it, or were you just doing a search and found it?

BRAD, can I repeat that you repeated me? Think I am going to start another group about people who have been quoated by THE BRAD. just kidding- I think (that's all that counts right) that people who offer solutions need extra points (Oh NO another can of worms!!) be good cheryl

Jeffrey and Mona - I think it's just as easy as it was when you joined the group to unjoin. Just go to the group and click on the same box you did when you joined. It would be very difficult to setup the system to do that for you. However, if the Founder or moderator wanted to do that, there's nothing stopping them from booting people out of the groups now. They don't need a time frame, they just hit a dlete button. I could tell you some stories, just not here. lol~ :-)

Hey Peter - nice to see you back again. :-) I don't think it's that at all, members posts that don't get commented on in a year are buried at the bottom of their Blog and/or in the groups. If you make a comment on it, the post will be pushed back to the top of the group, and may start getting comments once again. Try it and see. Finding posts can be much more difficult than finding groups. Wait...I take that back, they can both be hard to find if you don't know how, and they are over a year old. :-)

Thanks for the reminders about the different groups and thanks for reminding us that the general public has no access to the groups.

Mike Fazier - how are you my friend, no problem, groups are good, there are many, ideas are blossoming here, but groups are still good. I think it's good that consumers don't see our groups. What would happen and what would people think when they saw our members in the ActiveRain Addicts Group? Oh wait, I'm a member there too!! lol~ haha! :-)

The number of groups on AR can be overwhelming- but it is fun to see what is out there. Sometimes it is good to venture outside of your comfort zone.

Carol - the number of members can be overwhelming too! lol~ I think venturing out of the comfort zone is good as long as you don't get so far out that it hurts. I have seen many members venture out so far that it gets too painful for them, just keep that life preserver close at hand. :-))

BTW - loved your fireworks photos on your blog, those were great shots!!

Brad...

Thank you. Thank you. This makes me feel much better about opening the Group...Memoirs In The Rain. Anytime I open a new Group or even think about opening a Group I get a little nervous cuzz folks think it's out of control. I only opened this new Group because so far the Memoirs have been...Well...Memorable and there's a strong chance they'll go viral. I want to be able to read them again perhaps next year or the year after or the year after and so on and so forth :)

Were you around in the days when we could post to as many groups as we wanted? I don't think you were. But...You would not believe the ruckus we had happening because folks were placing their blog posts in every group in the Rain. Thinking back it was all pretty damn funny :)

TLW...ROAR!

Brad,

Thanks for the reminder, I went out and joined a few new ones myself. I always search random blogs for new content, but haven't thought of joining a new group in a while. Thanks for the kick in the rear.

Hi Brad - here I am again! I really need to go through and add/delete my subscription to groups. As you mentioned, there are a lot of good ones. You did mention a couple that I will drop by and check out. Always good to read your posts. ;-)

I have to take the time to join a few more. Have a great day and thanks for reminding.

Hi Brad...Here goes, the answer to your question. I read almost all of Deb's posts and many of Melissa's. Deb mentioned Melissa's post Putting Active Rain to work for you ! Part 1. Of course, I went there and saw that she had just formed the group. I quickly joined and then wrote a post about it which I called Jumping on the Success Wagon hoping to encourage others to join.

Deb recently started another group Buy Waterfronts which she invited me to join as she knows that is my market. I have joined several groups this way, through invitation.

What you discovered in looking at Margaret's profile is something that I have been doing for a while. If I like what people write, such as Margaret Woda, I see what groups they are in and sometimes I discover a group that appeals to me.

Another way is finding a topic (or category) that interests me such as staging or photography or waterfront property and I look for those groups. I have used the search group function for this as well as looking at profiles of people that are in one of those groups to see which other groups they have found that address those topics.

Should I have written a post? I sure have gone on and on.

Take care,

Kate

P.S. If you ever look at my profile you will see many groups. These are not just for posting possibilities but for reading purposes.

I don't monitor the groups I joined and now would be a good time to re-evaluate the groups and see if others are of interest.

Dawn - once you dive into some of these groups, you'll discover so much more... :-)

Jason - (Leo) I only have 5 groups and it's a handful I tell ya, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

BTW - mine is 8/21 just after you. :-))

Cheryl - I like worms, you can open as many cans as you like! lol~ Be Good too... :-)

TLW - yes, I was around in the day. I still have some posts I can't edit because they are in 20 different groups. Don't want to lose that exposure!! lol~ I Like you idea for the Memoirs Group for Meme's, I promise I won't post there, I hate that poof gun you have! :-))

Brad I joined a few groups in the begininng and it saves a lot time. You can get to topics that interest you in much less time. Active Rain is way to vast to see it all

Joshua and Kathy - that was no kick in the rear, it was a pat on the back! Way to go, hope you find some groups that are interesting and of value to you both and your business. :-)

Teri - it's always great to see your comments here. (still love that Lady In Red) When the dust settles from all the new launches, I'll be doing some major overhauls on my Blog, groups, profile etc. Time for a change, just too busy right now. Hope all is well, enjoy your add/delete sweep! :-)

Russ - take the time, it's worth it. It's like exploring a new area in the neighborhood. You'll find some groups on AR that are packed with information that will help your business, your marketing, your Blogging, your health, you name it, if you look, you'll find it! :-)

Kate - love it! Yes, with a great comment like that, you could cut and paste and make it a post! lol~ Thanks for taking the time to answer my question, I didn't want to assume and I also wanted others to see how members can utilize groups and benefit from them frm your perspective. Loved your comment, thanks, I really do appreciate it. :-)

Terry - I'm behind ya all the way! No better time than the present if you have the time. :-)

Brad I joined a few groups in the begininng and it saves a lot time. You can get to topics that interest you in much less time. Active Rain is way to vast to see it all

Jeff - that really sums it up quite well, thanks for commenting and sharing your perspective. AWESOME! :-)

Thanks for reminding us to re-check groups, there are several I have joined that I don't visit often enough, but I'm sure there a a lot more I would enjoy, that's where I'm going now, to see what's new

Brad, IMHO I think there are too many groups. A bit more organization and regulation might help...

I even started a group. And yes, the groups are a great resource. I need to spend more time surfing groups, though.

I'd like your support on a Mixpo group 4 Dummies. I want to send out invites to experts and then let the "newbies" join in. I sent you a separate email! for example, I can feature a few of the cool mixpo posts I've seen, including yours, and then let the newbies ride on in..a safe way to video prior to a big contest!

As you say, it's all about the content!

Brad... Great information on groups. As always.. thank you for taking the time to share the information

JUL

2008

Another great post packed with valuable information. I like the analogy in one of the comments about groups being neighborhoods. AR is like a huge city and groups are neighborhoods within the city.

Brad, thanks for the edification. I have joined groups sporadically, often because I have been invited and it looked interesting.

I never have been able to get to the end of the list! I think they are valuable. I generally "haunt" several groups reading posts - but others that I have joined, I don't spend so much time on. It's hard to put my finger on why one group is more "fun" than another. I know this is a stupid question, but the order in which the groups are placed - um - how does that work????

I would love participation from all on my group: - The AR Cookbook....enter your favorite recipes here for all to enjoy.

Because in the long run, when I have enough recipe's to complete a great cookbook...it will be a fantastic closing gift for all...remember...the first page is a note from you and a page to attach your business card...You customer might loose your card, phone number...but not a 500 page cookbook!

Please feel free to enter your original recipe's and join my club....

I'm here for all...I would love to have at least one recipe from every member...that would be fabulous...so far we have over 225 recipe's and I haven't even added any yet...this is my second cookbook...there are almost 400 original's in my first...

Come on...join in!

Karen :-)

JUL

2008

It's funny that you mention this. I spent a good part of yesterday going through the groups that I was already a member of and deciding if I still wanted to be part of that group - then I went out and joined some that were more relevant to my current situation.

this place is time consuming, but man is it full of good stuff!!

JUL

2008

No Problem on the help Brad...I am gonna head off here in a minute to work on our first Week in Review post.

Brad, I'm going to have to get to your blog early on...I'm exhausted reading all the comments..there's relevent content in your responses! Wow..I actually had to think! LOL Hurts the brain... I like the fact that we have so many groups..there's something for everyone.

What an asset you are here, Brad. You ARE a community builder and what a wonderful bridge to have to keep this place calm. I appreciate all you do here!

Sorry - I did not leave my post here....ok...yes I did! I have been trying to get back here but I know you all know where I've been. More reading and commenting these past few days than ever before! lol~

Be back to finish up here in a few... :-)

JUL

2008

Doris - you WILL find some fantastic groups and incredible people in them. Enjoy and have Fun!! :-)

Chris - I know what you mean...so what hours are you available??? LOL~ :-)

Lane - surfing is the perfect term for scanning groups, paddle your butt off to get out there, but then enjoy the ride all the way back to the beach! Great analogy, thanks for that! :-))))

Tracy - I think there are a few video groups already, but go for it if you like. I know we are no longer calling it Mixpo, it will be called ActiveRain Video and should soon be at video.activerain.com. We're not quite there yet, you might want to wait until we finish the integration. Thanks for coming up with a great idea, just check and see if there are others already doing this. :-)

Roland - (on the river), piece o cake! Glad to help out when and where I can my friend! :-)

Brian - groups on AR are exactly like little neighborhoods scattered all through-out the community, so get out there, take a walk, and see what "Neighborhoods" tickle your fancy the most! Have fun. :-)

Christine - I see you are in some great groups. It's great to see the groups other members are interested in, almost helps you to get to know that member just a little bit better based on their interests. I see we have some of the same interests. :-)

Ruthmarie - you can sort them in a different order if you like, I covered that in the post above. Just open the pulldown menus and sort them by the options available. I think it currently defaults to a sort based on the most subscribers to that group. If not, then it's by most active. You can resort them any way you please. :-))

Karen - what a cool idea, I'll have to come by and check out some of your "RECIPES" for success!! :-)

Kate - it is time consuming, but if you broke down all the information that you could get off AR, vs what you might spend to get this from a coach or mentor, the time spent here is worth every penny! Oh yeah, it's all FREE. Darn, did someone mess up or what??? lol~ :-)

Jeremy - I been swamped buddy, I'll have to try and make it over to the MLS group and check that out. I hope you featured it in the group. :-)

Linda - your comment was funny but it hurt my brain too just thinking about it! LOL!!!~ Funny thing you mention the value of comments, in many cases, I find more value in the comments at times than I do the original post. Not always, but alot of the time. I almost did a post today about it. Way backed up on posts right now, just too much to write about.

Thank you for the compliment and Kudos too, I appreciate that very much!! :-)

You always give me new inspiration. I had to put mys elf on "active-rain restriction" cause i was just spending too much time reading blogs and posts, but now, hum......maybe i could just allow myself a little more time on AR.......

Judy - you are off restriction, though I totally understand what you mean. Been there, done that!! :-))

JUL

2008

I actually use the groups to search for info relevant to something I am researching or want more info on whether it is real estate related, technology, etc. Thanks for the post.

Michael - the groups provide more focused content on specific subject matter and topics. I think the way you are searching is commendable.

JUL

2008

I have joined or browsed a couple but they are not very active. Seldom does anything happen.

Steven - you have not looked at the right groups. There's a pull down like the one in this post above, that will let you search "most active" groups, and believe me, they are Active...tell em Active Brad sent ya! lol~ :-)

Brad, kudos, another great post to help all the members in The Rain. Thanks for the info.

Duane

Brad,

Thank you for another great post. I have tried to be selective as I have joined different groups. I consider it as different aspects of my areas of interest or maybe strengths. I obviously cannot visit everyone of these groups every day, just as I cannot visit everyone of my friends every day, but I do not eleminate them from my life because I can only see them occassionally. I would rather visit occassionally than not at all. Hopefully that is not an inappropriate attitude. It just seemed to make sense to me.

Brad,

Thank you for a great post. I will be joining several groups today. I did not realize that it was so easy.

Duane - thanks for the kudos my friend. :-)

Derenda - sounds like you have figured out the best way that it works for you. That's what everyone has to do. It won't be the same for all, you have to make it so that YOU get the benefits of these groups in the rain.

Paul - it is easy, but keeping up with it all can be a challenge if you don't have some processes in place. There are some really great groups here with tons of information regarding almost any topic. It's the members and content in those groups that make them so valuable! :-)

Thanks for the info - I wonder if most people prefer "public" or "private" groups....

I just started one today for Hickory, NC Realtors

Justin and Katie - it just depends on what your group is for. There are some private groups you can request to join, most are public. If you create any groups, just be sure you do a thorough search to make sure one similar hasn't already been created. Enjoy your journey! :-)

As a newbie, this was a very helpful description of the groups and how they work. Thanks,

Hey all you "newbie's" Brad's been here, done that and NOW!!! He is one of the best of the best of the group that run's this site!

Couldn't have a more caring group to help you with your career!

Brad...is and does what he promises...

Karen

JUL

2008

Allen - Thanks, I hope you'll find some groups that you'll enjoy and contribute to. :-)

Karen - that was so sweet of you, thanks for that comment. I do feel like I am part of a very fortunate and caring group here on Activerain. Jon, Bob, Rich, Matt, Nicole, Claire, and the rest of the AR Team are some of the nicest most caring individuals I have EVER worked with in this industry.

I am blessed to also be surrounded by a community of members like yourself who understand and appreciate all that AR is trying to do for all of us. I plan on being here forever unless my creator has different plans for me, but until then, my door will always be open to helping others just as many have helped me over the years. The best way to pay them back is to always try and pay it forward. :-))

JUL

2008

I actually do check the groups every now and again, it always amazes me how many different topics of interest there are.

JUL

2008

Cindy - there are so many great groups and new ones popping up all the time. You almost have to make the rounds once a week if you want to try and keep up with them all. Enjoy your weekend! :-)

AUG

2008

Brad--you never ceased to amaze me---thanks for this one! I started a group: http://activerain.com/groups/FraudAlert because I am so tired of this activity in my area and I want to eliminate it! I would love for people to post to it but haven't figure out a way to mass-promote it! Any Ideas? I try to individually invite people---but that is a little time consuming!

I didn't know you can sort your groups---thanks for the advice!

Aida - looks like a great group with a great cause. All you can do is promote it and get members to contribute great content. The rest will just happen if it's meant to be. Build and they will come right? :-)

The longer I am here, the more groups i find that fill a need or interest and it's a great resource to learn and interact with different folks from all over the country! I have already made a number of new friends just by commenting and then emailing and it been great!

Russell - as they say, when you're here, it's welcome home.

AUG

2008

Brad you give such great information, I would like to know if on our home page we can sort or change how our groups we are in show up? I know this is probably elementary but I don't know.

Thanks for all of your posts and help

Doris Freeman

AUG

2008

Doris - there's no sort method of how they appear on your sidebar. I'm not even sure how they're sorted now. I can see mine are not alphabetical. Great question. :-))

FEB

I wondered what I could do to narrow down the search of all the thousands of groups out there. There's gotta be something for me. Thanks.

MAR

Thanks Brad. It is a long process going through every single group page and adding individual groups, but does this not open up that many more communities to potentially post our helpful content?

Aron - I see I am chasing you around my Blog today. Are you reading and commenting on every single post? Laugh out loud!! I'm honored, thanks. It does open potential for exposure and visibility, but you can only post in up to 5 groups. Just make sure you only post relative content in these groups you join. Be sure to read the group descriptions before posting to them. Have fun and enjoy. :-)

Jason,

Leo as well...August 12th...cannot get more Leo than that...

Then again my youngest daughter is 8/19...same as Bill Clinton with better morals.

Jason,

Leo as well...August 12th...cannot get more Leo than that...

Then again my youngest daughter is 8/19...same as Bill Clinton with better morals.

SEP

Brad, I found this post by searching for groups. I see now that we are approaching almost 6,000 groups. Time for me to go through them again, and see if there are any new ones worth joining. It is a little time consuming, but a great way to meet new people and learn new things.

Troy - hadn't had a comment on this post since March so you caught me by surprise. I had forgotten about this one already. Yes, the groups are a great way to meet new people and there have been some interesting groups started since I wrote this post. I need to do the same as you and see what's out there. I am already a member of so many and with the limit to only be able to post to five, it seems like I can never provide as much as I'd like to to each group. Such is the "Rain", so much to do, so little time. :-)) Enjoy my friend.

NOV

Hi Brad, this is a good post and since I am catching up this is right on time (although it was written a while back)... your posts are always timely! I have joined several groups but there is always room for more. I even started one on Short Sales... however, I am the only one that is putting post in that group so I missed something along the way on how to get others to visit and comment. Thanks for the post and it great hearing from you.

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